Dec. 13—MORGANTOWN — When the National League of Cities unveiled its first list of Under 40 Impact Award winners at the Centennial City Summit on Nov. 13 in Tampa, Florida, Mayor Joe Abu-Ghannam’s name topped the list.
Some say the list was alphabetical.
“But we like to think this is because of our community and its leadership,” said Deputy Mayor Jenny Selin.
Regardless, Abu-Ghannam was selected from a competitive group of youth nominees recognized for their contributions to public service, governance and community development.
The nominees were to be chosen from officials under the age of 40 from cities, towns and villages that are members of the NLC.
“These incredible young leaders embody the spirit of innovation and dedication that defines the National League of Cities,” said Robert Blaine, director of NLC’s Center for Leadership, Education, Advancement & Development. “Their work is not only inspiring, but essential to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing our cities today. As NLC enters its second century, it is such leaders who will drive the next 100 years of growth for both NLC and will guide our country.”
The National League of Cities began at the University of Kansas in 1924, when ten states came together to form an organization that would serve as a clearinghouse for information about municipal government. Today, the organization represents nearly 3,000 municipalities and is one of the leading advocates for local governments across the country, according to its website.
Abu-Ghannam was one of fourteen mayors selected for the award. There were three deputy mayors and 28 councilors on the list. The honorees represent 24 states. Abu-Ghannam is the only elected official from West Virginia.
“This award is a testament to the impactful work being done in Morgantown and reflects our community’s collective efforts to drive positive change and innovation. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and vitality of our city and to be part of a broader movement that is shaping the future of local governance,” Abu-Ghannam said.
Abu-Ghannam joined the Morgantown City Council in 2021.
He was one of five candidates interviewed for the First Ward seat left vacant shortly after the April 2021 election. He was appointed to the council unanimously on July 28 and sworn in on August 10 of that year.
He was re-elected for a four-year term in April 2023 and elected as mayor by a majority of the council on July 2, 2024.
Abu-Ghannam called the recognition “an incredible honor.”
“I’m just glad I got it in writing that I’m under 40,” he laughed.
